Quick Answer

Inspect your S8E TiN shock shafts regularly for scoring, bending, or coating wear. If you find damage, replace them promptly with genuine S8E TiN shafts to maintain smooth suspension travel and prevent further wear to your shocks.

Why TiN Coating Matters

The titanium nitride (TiN) coating on the S8E shock shaft isn't just for looks. It reduces friction between the shaft and the shock seal, which helps the suspension move smoothly and reduces wear on the seal itself. The coating also adds scratch resistance, so the shaft is less likely to develop small nicks that can tear the seal and cause leaks.

When the TiN coating wears through or the shaft gets scratched, you'll notice a few telltale signs. The shock may start to leak oil, the suspension might feel gritty or sticky, and you might see oil film on the shaft after compression. Catching this early can save you from having to rebuild the entire shock.

Common Causes of Shock Shaft Wear

Shock shafts don't wear out on their own. The most common cause is dirt and grit that gets past the shock seal and acts like sandpaper on the shaft. Running in dusty or muddy conditions without proper shock boots can accelerate this. Another cause is running the suspension at full compression frequently, which can stress the shaft and lead to bending if the impact is hard enough.

Sometimes the wear is caused by misalignment. If the shock is mounted at an angle that puts side load on the shaft, it can wear unevenly and cause binding. Check your shock mounting points for any play or misalignment when you inspect the shafts.

Diagnosing and Replacing Your S8E TiN Shock Shaft

  • Symptom: Oil leaking from the shock, gritty or sticky suspension feel, visible scratches or wear on the shaft, or a bent shaft that causes the suspension to bind.
  • Likely Cause: Dirt and debris that bypass the shock seal and abrade the shaft, or hard impacts that bend the shaft. Misaligned shock mounting can also cause uneven wear. Check your shock boots and mounting alignment to prevent future wear.
  • Corrective Action: Remove the shock from the vehicle, disassemble it, and inspect the shaft. If you see deep scratches, coating wear, or bending, replace the shaft with a genuine S8E TiN shock shaft. Rebuild the shock with fresh oil and a new seal if needed. Always replace both shafts in a pair to maintain consistent damping.
  • Stop or Choose Another Option: If the shock body or other internal components are also damaged, consider replacing the entire shock rather than just the shaft. If you're unsure about the rebuild process, consult a professional or the manufacturer's manual. If the shock body is scored or the seal seat is damaged, a full shock replacement may be more cost-effective.

Replacement Options

  • S8E TiN Shock Shaft: The S8E TiN Coated Shock Shaft set includes two TiN-coated shafts designed for Incision S8E shocks, with a TiN coating that reduces friction and increases scratch resistance. This replacement set restores smooth, low-friction suspension travel and helps protect your shock seals from premature wear, keeping your shocks performing like new.

    S8E TiN Shock Shaft

    S8E TiN Shock Shaft